Speaking Answer IELTS

8/2/2019 Speaking Answer IELTS

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1. Hello. Could you show me your identification card please?

Hello. Sure, here it is.

2. Could you tell me your full name please?

My full name is X. I am also called by my nick name Y.

3. What shall I call you?

You could call me X.

4. How are you?

I am well thank you, and yourself?

5. How old are you?

I am 22 years old. In other words, I was born in 1980.On the eighth of March1980, to be exact.

6a. Does your name have any special meaning?

Yes, my name does have some special meaning. My family name means peace, and my first name meansstrong one. My nick name was given to me by one of my high school teachers, and it does not have anyspecial meaning really.

6b. Does your name have any special meaning?

I presume you are referring to my Muslim name. Yes, the English equivalent of my family name would

be something like peace, and in the case of my first name it would be strong one. My nick name wasrandomly chosen by one of my high school teachers, and it really doesnt have any special meaning.

7a. Is your name important to you?

No. I dont think it can do anything for me. I believe a person has to work out his own life. I am planningto do this as well as I can.

7b. Is your name important to you?

Not really. I am part of the new generation who do not attach too much significance to our names.Names were important to the older generation as they of the opinion that it will determine your destinyto some extent. However, I

Personally believe that I myself will determine my destiny irrespective of what my name is. I will do thisby acquiring good qualifications and by working hard


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Hometown

8. How long have you lived in your hometown?

I come from xxx. My parents have been living here for the past thirty years or so.I grew up here and Iattended a well-known school called School number 163.We live in a respectable area with many shops,restaurants, and a variety of other businesses. The people in our building are generally friendly andquite, which makes it a pleasure to live there.

9a. Where do you live?

I live with my parents here in xxx at the moment. To be more exact, we live in an apartment building inone of the northern suburbs of the city. I have my own room and enjoy the privacy that it brings, but Iam looking forward to the day that I can have my own apartment. Allow me to explain: they are goodparents, and I love them very much, but I would like to be more independent soon.

9b. Where do you live?

Well, that is not so easy to answer. Please allow me to explain. During the week I live in a dormitory atthe university, but over weekends I live with my parents in village about one hour by car from xxx. So Ireally do not know which of the two to call my home at the moment.

10. Can you tell me something about your hometown?

Yes, certainly. XXX is in the northeast part of my country. It has about three million inhabitants. It hasmany heavy industries such as automobile, and machine tool manufacturers. In addition, it is rich in

history. For example, the xxx invaded the city and committed many atrocities (that is to say manycrimes) during the occupation. This is still remembered by many of the elderly folks to this day. Anotherexample that I could mention is the Imperial

Palace that belonged to the last dynasty.

11. What are the main places of interest in your hometown? Why?

Sure. Firstly, I could mention the Great

River, which you will find around the city. To the northeast of the city there are the famous Mountainsand the zoological park and botanical gardens. In summer it is a popular place to visit and see tigers,bears, wolves, other animals and even pandas in their natural environment. In winter we often go skiingthere. Secondly, I would like to mention the Park. It consists of a large park, with many gardens and alake. In addition it also is the site of an emperors tomb from the Dynasty. Lastly, there are many other


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sites that are worthwhile visiting. For example, Government (City Hall) Square with the Great Theateralongside it, Java Square, and the spectacular TV Tower, which is the highest architectural attraction inmy country.

12. What places in your hometown do you like best?

There are many places that I like. If I had to choose one place, I would like to tell you about GovernmentSquare. Firstly, it is the largest square. What I mean is that it is a large open space where one can see thesky clearly, and feel free. Secondly, it houses an important government building. I guess you could call itthe City Hall.

13a. What are the main crops in your region?

In our region many crops are grown. For example one would find all kinds of vegetables in the fields of this region. In addition, many farmers have orchards.Here they grow many kinds of fruit like apples,pears, and peaches.

13b. What are the main crops in your region?

In our region many crops are grown. For example one would find all kinds of vegetables in the fields of this region. In addition, many farmers have orchards.Here they grow many kinds of fruit like apples,pears, and peaches. Lastly, it isimportant to note that it is not known for its agriculture. It is betterknown as anindustrial city. For example, here are many heavy industries manufacturinganything fromaircraft and automobiles to machine tools.

14a. What is the difference between your hometown and other cities

(suchas Hong Kong)?

The main difference between my hometown and Hong Kong is the climate. For example, there theyhave a tropical climate. That is to say that it is very hot andhumid. Here in my hometown we have coldwinters and hot summers. Secondly,My hometown is an industrial city, whereas Hong Kong is more afinancial center.That is to say, here we have many factory workers, or to be more exact, family-orientated workers who are not very wealthy, and in Hong Kong there are manytycoons, millionaires,and wealthy people.

14b. What is the difference between your hometown and Hong Kong?

The main difference between my hometown and Hong Kong is the climate. For example, there theyhave a tropical climate. That is to say that it is very hot andhumid. Here in my hometown we have coldwinters and hot summers. Althoughcities like Toronto,New York, are larger than my hometown , they all


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are bustlingwith industrial and cultural activities. Maybe Hong Kong is an exception, as it isbetter knownas one of the most important financial capitals of the world.

15. Can you tell me something about the character of the people in your hometown?

Well, they aren't any different from the inhabitants in any other large city. For example, here we alsohave many wholesome families as well as our share of criminal elements in the society. In addition, Ibelieve that my hometown has notbeen westernized to the same extent as a city like HongKong. Forexample, thepeople have not become materialistic to the same extent as the inhabitants of

Hong Kong. In other words, in my hometown you would still find many good old-fashioned (traditional)people who have strong principles and values about manyaspects of life

Present Situation (student)

16a. Are you a student or do you have a job?

I am a student at the moment. I am studying English on a full-time basis at aLanguage

School here . We have classes in the mornings, afternoons, andevenings. Wednesday afternoons we areoff, and are allowed to go swimming ata nearby hotel. We have a number of foreign teachers who assistus in thecorrect pronunciation and grammar of the language.

16b. Are you a student or do you have a job?

I have a job. I am working in a workshop of a large manufacturing plant at themoment. I graduated fromhigh school two years ago, and went to workimmediately. I am an assistant to one of the automotiveelectricians in theworkshop. I have to assist my artisan in getting his jobs done. For instance, Ihave theresponsibility to see that are the tools are in good order, and that theworkshop is always kept clean andtidy.

17. What do you like most about your studies?

Well, I guess the speaking part. Please allow me to explain. Language is allabout communication. Sowhen I am able to communicate with someone inEnglish, I feel that I have achieved something. Iparticularly like our free talksessions with the foreign teachers. It gives me the opportunity to questionthemabout their countries and cultures.


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18. What is your major?

As I have been studying on a full-time basis at an English

Language

School, wehave only one subject, namely English for Academic Purposes called EAP. Wedo reading andwriting, practical speaking, and listening by means of cassettes.English is the language of the future,especially in the business world. What Imean to say is that when I am able to communicate well inEnglish I will not onlybe able to go and study abroad and improve my qualifications, but alsohavemastered a very necessary tool for my future career.

19. Which is the best university in your country?

Thats an interesting question. Allow me to explain my personal view by shortlymentioning the followingpoints: I believe that the xxx

University is the bestUniversity in the country. For example, it has the highest percentage of studentspassing their courses of all the universities in my country.

20. Describe your study habits?

I have well established study habits. For example, I always start promptly at eightin the evenings. I studyfor two hours, have a ten-minute break, and the study for

another two hours. I follow this habit from Mondays to Fridays, but over theweekends I put in morehours. For example, I study in the mornings andafternoons, and then take the evenings off to relax withmy family or friends.

21. Do you think your present subjects are relevant?

Yes. Allow me to explain myself by shortly mentioning the following points:Firstly, we often use case

studies in class. What I mean is that the professor gives us examples from real life to examine and reporton. Secondly, our lecturers and some advisors from the relevant industries have set up ourstudymaterial. What I mean to say is that the people who we are going to work for oneday have had theopportunity to tell the university what they think we should betaught.

22. What kind of job would you prefer after graduation?


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I would like to become a medical doctor. Please allow me to explain. Firstly, Iwould like to render aservice in the community to which I will eventually belong.For example, I would like to assist the elderlythat do not have the financialmeans to afford private hospitals.

23. What are your job prospects?

I am planning to become a Hotel Manager. Please allow me to explain. Firstly, Ibelieve that the hotelindustry will be growing greatly in future. For example,people are becoming more affluent, and spendmore and more of their money onholidays. In addition, I believe that after graduating I will be able tofind a good job anywhere in the world. What I mean to say is that all hotels and resorts havethe sameobjectives irrespective of where they are situated. Their aim is toensure that their guests have a goodtime and return again.

Present Situation (employee)

24a. Do you have a degree? If so, when and where did you graduate?

Yes. I have a Bachelors Degree in Electrical Engineering. I graduated in 2001from xxx

University . It is the largest university in my country and has abouttwenty thousand students.

24b. Do you have a degree? If so, when and where did you graduate?

No. I have a Diploma in Nursing. I graduated in 2001 from the Medical

TrainingCollege . It is a well-known College giving excellent training to future nurses andother medicalstaff. For example, ambulance drivers, hospital staff, and so on areall trained there.

25. What impressed you most when you were at university / college?

I was most impressed by the knowledge and skills of my lecturers. For example,they had experience inthe working environment, and could tell us exactly whatwe would come across there. Secondly, I wasimpressed by the facilities. For example, we had a large library, well-equipped laboratories, and sporting


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facilities at our disposal.

26. Do you still remember your school days?

Of course! Those were some of the best times in my life. Allow me to explainmyself by shortlymentioning the following points: Firstly they were carefree days.What I mean to say is that I had no orvery few worries. My parents provided inmy day-to-day needs, and all I had to do was get good grades.Secondly, I hadmany friends in school. For instance, some o my best friends today were peoplethat I metin school.

27. Describe your job in detail.

I am an Engineer. Allow me to explain myself by shortly mentioning the followingpoints: Firstly, I workfor a large construction company. To be more precise, wespecialize in the building of railway bridges.Secondly, I would like to mention thatI am in the designing department. We have to look at the site for anew bridge,and then decide what type of bridge will be suitable. Lastly, we have to

makerecommendations to the railway company of all the alternatives, and give themsome idea of thecosts.

28. Is your job important to you?

Thats a broad question. Allow me to explain by shortly mentioning the followingpoints: Firstly, my job isimportant to me because by doing it I can serve mycommunity and my country. For example, when mycompany builds a new road,many people benefit from our work. Secondly, I personally get a lot of jobsatisfaction. What I mean to say is that after we have completed a road, I amproud to drive on theroad with my family and explain to them what was involvedduring the building of the road.

29. If you could, would you change jobs?

Although I am very happy in my present job, I believe one should always beambitious. That is to say oneshould never be complacent, but should be on thelookout for opportunities to advance in your career.Furthermore, I would nothesitate for one moment if I could obtain a promotion by changing jobs. Irealizethat one should show some loyalty to your present employer, but there has to bea balancebetween looking after ones own interests and those of your presentemployer.

30. Are their possible changes that could affect your job in any way?

I dont think so. The company that I am working for is large and strong. Inadd ition, I have a good

relationship with my colleagues and my boss. Lastly, theonly possible change that would affect me is if Ishould receive a promotion. Thatwould be a positive development, so I am worried at all


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Family (general)

31. Could you tell me something about your family?

Certainly. We are a normal Indian family. It consists of my father, my mother, andme. I am the onlychild, so I dont have any brothers or sisters. My grandparentspassed away when I was still very young,so I did not have the privilege of knowing them. My father was one of four children, and my mother hasa brother,so I have a number of uncles and aunts, and many cousins.

32. What do you think of the One-Child Policy in China?

Thats a tough question. Allow me to explain my p ersonal views by shortlymentioning the followingpoints: Firstly, I think we have to have the policy inChina. Our population had been growing to rapidlyand something drastic had tobe done. Secondly, I believe the policy will give China a chance to moveaheadin the world. What I mean to say is that as soon as the population growth hasstabilized, China willbe able to make progress in the fight againstunemployment.

33. Why do people in your country traditionally want to have a son?

Thats an interesting ques tion. Allow me to explain my personal views by shortlymentioning thefollowing points: Firstly, I believe that fathers all over the worldwant someone to carry their name intothe future. For example, in many westerncountries it is customary for a boy to re ceive his grandfathersname. A secondreason that I could mention is that parents worry about what will happen to themafterthey had retired. They feel that when they have a son he would be able toprovide for them in future.

34. Who does most of the shopping in your family?

As far as this topic is concerned, I could say that my mother does most of theshopping, but my fatherand I will do some shopping from time to time. Myparents allow me to buy my own clothes. Lastly, Iwould like to mention that mymother does not like my fathers smoking habit and therefore refuses tobuycigarettes, so that my father has to do that kind of shopping himself.

35. Who does most of the cooking in your family?

My mother does most of the cooking, but my father and I will do some cookingfrom time to time. Forexample, sometimes my mother will be out the whole daydoing voluntary work in our community, andthen my father and I will do thecooking for her. The second aspect I could tell you about regarding thistopic isthat we often eat out. For example, often on a Friday night none of us feel likecooking, and thenwe visit one of the local restaurants, and have our favoritedish.

36. How does your family feel about you going abroad?

They are very happy about me going abroad. I believe my parents will be veryproud if I were to achievea degree at a university abroad. In addition, they


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themselves never had the opportunity to study. I am their only child, and theywould do anything in theirpower to allow me to have the opportunity

Family (married person)

37. Are you married?

And if so, when did you get married?

Yes, I am married. I got married about three years ago. I have a good husband /wife, and we are veryhappy together. To put it in another way you could say thatwe are best friends. For example, we do notkeep any secrets from one another.We had known each other for many years before we got married, sowe did nothave to adjust too much. For example, I knew that he snores loudly when heturns onto hisback when sleeping.

38. Do you have any children?

No, I dont have any children yet. We are planning to start with a family as soonas we have our ownapartment. Until then my husband / wife and I are workingas hard as possible to improve our positionsin the companies that we areemployed by. We would both like to have a son and a daughter, but

because of the one-child policy that will not be possible.

39. What is your childs name? Does it have any meaning?

My childs name is David Lee. His nickname is superman, as we believe that heis going to become astrong man one day.

40. What does your wife do?

My wife is a housewife at the moment. We are looking for a job for her, but it isnot easy, as she doesnot have any qualifications or experience. They areopening up a new supermarket in our area soon, andwe are hoping that she willbe able to find a job there. She has placed her name on a waiting list, and wewillbe hearing from the employment officer soon.

41. What does your husband do?

My husband is a civil servant. He works for the Department of Health at ahospital near our home. He isresponsible for keeping the patient records in themens wards. He loves his work, and is receiving a


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good salary, so we dont haveany serious worries. As a matter of fact we both agree that we have a lotto bethankful for.

42. Did you have a honeymoon?

And if so, where did you go?

Yes, we did have a honeymoon. We went to Cuba for a week, and stayed in asmall hotel next to thebeach. I will never forget the time we spent there. For example, it was very romantic, as we could sit onthe beach in the evenings andwatch the moon rising over the sea.

43. Did you and your spouse have to ask permission from

your parentsbefore you could get married?

No, not really. They knew we were going to get married. We only had to confirmthe date with them toensure that it would suit them and our families. In earlier times it was customary for the young man toget the permission from hisgirlfriends parents before they could get married.

44. Is living together without getting married acceptable in your country?

It depends to what extent the couple would adhere to earlier customs. What Imean to say is that thesedays it is becoming more and more acceptable. For example, young people feel that they first want toget know each other evenbetter by living together. When they are absolutely sure that they are abletoadapt to each others lifestyles, they would then most probably decide to getmarried.

45. Do you think couples should live with their parent or on their own?

There are several reasons as for why I think couples should life on their own.Allow me to explain bymentioning some of them briefly. Firstly, I believe couplesshould become independent as soon aspossible. For example, they should learnhow to cope with the money at their disposal. Secondly, Ibelieve they should bealone as soon as possible. For example, should they have an argument, theyhaveto solve the problem by themselves.

46. What responsibilities should a couple take?

There are several responsibilities that couples should take. Allow me to explainby mentioning some of them briefly. In the first place, I believe they should beresponsible for their own finances. For example,young couples usually do nothave a lot of money, and find it difficult to make ends meet. Secondly, I


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believethat later they have to look after their children. For example, they have to feedand clothe them,and ensure that they get a good education

Family (children)

47. Are there any traditions around the birth of a baby in your region?

Yes, there are quite a few. Firstly, after the baby is born, the father will give hiswife some flowers, andtake photographs of the baby and her. When the babyarrives at home, the parents will make prints of itshands and feet. This , together with a paintbrush made by using some of the babies hair, will be keptasmemorabilia.

48. What kind of parent do you intend to be?

Thats an interesting question. Allow me to explain my personal views by shortlymentioning thefollowing points: First of all, I would love my child unconditionally.

What I mean is that I realize my child is not perfect, but I will still love him/her even if s/he has made amistake. Secondly, I would like to be known as a strictbut fair parent. For example, I will not allow mychild too many freedoms, but I willalso try to understand his/her needs.

49. What hopes or fears do you have concerning your children?

Thats an interesting question. Allow me to explain myself/my personal views byshortly mentioning thefollowing points: Firstly, I fear that my children will have avery hard life. For example, I wonder if theywill have work to do. Secondly, Ihope that they will be happy. For example, that they will find a goodspouse,have children, and live together in peace and love.

50. What type of culture do you want your child to grow up in?

Thats a broad question. Allow me to explain myself/my personal views by shortlymentioning thefollowing points: Firstly, I would like my child to grow up in aculture of love. What I mean to say is that Ihope the circumstances in our homewill full of love and understanding. Secondly, I hope my child will

grow up in aculture where the finer things in life are important. For example, things like music,art, andstudying should be part of his life from the beginning.

51. Are you going to bring your children up differently from the way youwere brought up? Why?

No, not really. I believe my parents raised me well,and gave me a good education. If I could do the samefor my child I would behappy. Maybe I would be a bit more modern. For example, I believe my


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parentswere unreasonably strict at times. I would try and keep a balance betweendiscipline andfreedom

Family (woman

)

52. Is there any sex discrimination in your country?

One of the aspects I could tell you about regarding this topic is that there is somediscrimination againstwoman in my country. For example, woman who are doingexactly the same job as men, are gettingsmaller salaries. Secondly, women arenot considered for certain high level positions, like for example, ingovernment. Inaddition, in many communities women are still regarded as inferior to men. Thisis

particularly the case in the rural communities. Lastly, parents prefer to have aboy as opposed to a girl.This is an unhealthy situation, as it will disturb thebalance between the number of men and women inmy country in the years tocome.

53a. What are the causes of sex discrimination?

One of the main reasons regarding this topic that I would like to highlight is thefact that men oftendetermine the wages in the companies. Secondly, women arenot seen as able to do certain jobs as wellas men. For instance, construction

work has always been seen as a mans job. Lastly, many men still believe that awoman shou ld stay athome, raise the kids, and be of service to her husband.

53b. What are the causes of sex discrimination?

Thats an interesting question. Allow me to explain myself by shortly mentioningthe following points:Firstly, I believe that discrimination against woman havedeep roots in societies all over the world. Inother words, it is not a present dayphenomenon. Throughout history women have not enjoyed the samestatus asmen. It is only recently that woman have been filling the same positions in thework place.Lastly, I believe that it will take much more time to eradicate thispractice. For example, as more andmore women become the sole breadwinnersin families, they will have to be compensated as suchirrespective of their sex.

54. Should housewives be paid a salary by the government? Why?

Yes, I believe housewives should be paid a salary by the government. Firstly, tobe a housewife is a job just as any other, and one should be paid for what she


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isdoing. Secondly, more housewives are better. For example, housewives canspend more time with theirbabies, and so lay the foundation of healthyrelationships

Preferences (spare time)

55a. What do you usually do in your spare time?

As a matter of fact, I have very little spare time these days. My studies are soimportant to me that I havegiven up all my other activities. For example, I usedto love playing tennis, but these days I simply do nothave the time. In addition, Iused to swim often, as I believe it kept me fit without the danger of beinginjured.

55b. What are your spare time interests?

Well, these days, I surf on the Internet in my spare time. I have just bought myfirst computer, and loveto look for exciting web sites that I have not knownbefore. It is of course very time consuming, so I dontrally have time for anythingelse. I have to mention that it is an educational activity. For example, bymeansof web cams (video images from cameras set up at certain places) I am able towatch what wild

animals are doing in many parts of the world. I particularly like towatch the polar bears playing withtheir cubs.

56. Do you often watch TV? What is your favorite program?

Yes, I often watch TV. My favorite program is called Discovery. As to why it is myfavorite, I would like tomention the following. Firstly, it is not science fiction but adocumentary on real life events andhappenings. For example, it had a programon the latest eclipse of the sun that occurred at the end of the year. Secondly, itoften has items about nature. For example, last week it explained how somebirdshave adapted to survive in a desert.

57. Do you think watching TV is a waste of time?

No, I do not think watching TV is a waste of time. Firstly, one can learn a lot fromwatching TV, andsecondly, it is a good way to relax. For example, the soapoperas help me to relax, while thedocumentaries are informative. Lastly, Ibelieve that TV has become the best source of information these


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days. For example, it is a fast and convenient way to find out about the latest news from allover theworld

Preferences (friends)

58. What does friendship mean to you?

One of the aspects I could tell you about regarding this topic is that friendship isvery important to me.For example, I believe that friendship should be the basisfor many of our relationships. Husbands andwives, for example, should befriends. In addition, I need friends to help me when I am in trouble. I knowthissound selfish, but I feel that it is one of the reasons why I have friends, and theywould not mind mesaying so. On the other hand, my friends know that I willalways be available should any one of them getinto some trouble.

59. Do you have a lot of friends?

Yes, I have a lot of friends. Some of them are only casual friends like my friendsat work, but I also havesome best friends. For example, I have some friends whoI have known for many years. I will do anythingto help them when they need me,and I know they would do the same for me.

60. Do you prefer to be alone or to be with friends?

I prefer to be alone. Please allow me to explain. I like reading, which takes a lotof my time. Reading tome is a way of studying, so I have to do it alone. I oftenhave to check the meaning of unfamiliar words inmy dictionary, which is a slowprocess taking a lot of time.

60a. Do you prefer to be alone or to be with friends?

I prefer to be with my friends. Please allow me to explain. At work I spend mostof my time alone in myoffice. So after work I like the company of other people. Ioften invite some of my friends over, and welisten to our favorite music, or justchat the whole evening.

60b. Do you prefer to be alone or to be with friends?

Sometimes I prefer to be alone. For example, after a hard day at work I just wantto relax withoutanybody disturbing me. Those are the times that I might meditateon the meaning of life for example, or just savour some fond memories. On theother hand, sometimes I want to be with my friends. Forexample, over weekends, I like to go out with them and enjoy their stimulating company.

61a. What do you usually do with your friends?


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Firstly, we often visit the nearest net bar for a number of reasons. For example,to play computer gamesor to surf on the net. Sometimes we chat to youngpeople abroad. We often spend hours there at a time.Secondly, we like to playbasketball. For example, we would challenge another group to play against us.

61b. What do you usually do with your friends?

We usually go to the movies. My friends and I like cartoons very much, so we willlook in the newspaperwhere a new cartoon is being showed and go and watch it.In addition, we like to watch a good actionmovie from time to time. We find thespectacular crashes and explosions very exiting. These movies arefrom HongKong or Hollywood, and have famous actors like Arnold Schwarzenegger andTom Cruiseplaying in them.

Preferences (weekends and outings)

62a. What do you usually do on weekdays and on weekends?

On weekdays I go to school. On weekends I like to go out with my friends. For example, we will go andvisit new shopping malls in the city. Then we wouldbrowse around all the shops. Sometimes we will sitin a restaurant and havesomething to drink while we watch the crowds of people go by.

62b. What do you usually do on weekdays and on weekends?

On weekdays I go to school. On weekends I like to stay at home. I can easilyspend a weekend watchingTV and just relaxing. For example, I like the soapoperas like Meteor Garden and so on. I know thedifferent characters well bynow, some whom I love, and some whom I hate. I realize that some of theplotsare silly and overdramatic, but it is good relaxing entertainment, as one does nothave to think veryhard to follow the stories.

OUTINGS63a. What do you usually do when you go out?

I usually go to the nearest net bar with some of my friends. We spend manyhours playing games orsurfing the net. In addition, net bars are a great place for social gatherings. There we meet otheryoungsters and just hang around talking,and generally having a good time.

63b. What do you usually do when you go out?

I usually go shopping with my mother. The reason for this is simple. US ladiesusually need a lot of clothes to make us look beautiful, so we love to goshopping. Often we dont actually buy anything, but just browse around looking atall the clothes and comparing prices and quality.


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63c. What do you usually do when you go out?

One of the aspects I could tell you about regarding this topic is that I usually go towatch a football gamewith some of my friends. We go to one of the localstadiums where our favorite team will be playing. Ilove the excitement andsuspense. It seems that I often loose my identity in such a large crowd, and

gocrazy about the smallest of things

Preferences (reading)

64a. Do you like reading?

No I dont like reading. I do not have the patience. For example, I have never been able to read a bookfrom start to finish. Maybe the books I have tried werenot interesting enough.

64b. Do you like reading?

Yes. I like reading very much. Please allow me to explain. Firstly, I believe that allof us should read a lot.For example, when you read you acquire new knowledge,which in turn will broaden your views onimportant matters. In addition I also likereading Crazy English. The topics are interesting and short, andthe translationsensure that I dont waste time looking up unfamiliar words.

65a. What kinds of books do you like best?

I like cartoons. Please allow me to explain. Firstly, I believe cartoons are aspecial form of art. For

example, the Japanese cartoons that are common inChina, have excellent illustrations.

65b. What kinds of books do you like best?

I like novels. Please allow me to explain. Firstly, I like to read a storyline that isfull of intrigue andsuspense. For example, many love stories have characterswho are involved in all sorts of conflictsamongst them. The most common oneknown all over the world since ancient times is the so-called lovetriangle.

66a. Describe a book that you have read recently.

I have read a book about the life of Michael Jordan. I am sorry, but I haveforgotten the name of thebook. I also like to read Japanese cartoons.

66b. Describe a book that you have read recently.

I have recently read a book about the history of South Africa. It is called TheCovenant, and was writtenby a famous American author called JamesMitchener. It describes the history from the very first days, upto the present. Itcovers all aspects of the country, but focuses on the people of the country. For


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example, he looks at the political situation over the past fifty years, which wasbased on racialdiscrimination and had become known to the world as apartheid.

67a. Do you often read the newspapers?

No, I never read a newspaper. I watch TV if I want to know what is happening inChina and the world.Newspapers take to much time to read. For example, thenews on TV is short and to the point, and thatsall I want to know.

67b. Do you often read the newspapers?

No. Allow me to explain the reasons by shortly mentioning the following points:Firstly, I use the Internetthese days if I want to know whats happening in regionand the world. For example, websites like CNNcontain all the latest news onworld events. Secondly, I like to read about stories in depth, and this Icannot findin newspapers. For example, I often would like to know the history behind astory. On theInternet I can do some research right away, and so gain a broader perspective on the subject at hand

Preferences (hobbies)

68. Do you have a hobby?

Yes. My hobby is stamp collecting. I have been collecting stamps for the past twoyears now. That is to

say, for two years I have chosen stamp collecting to be myonly hobby. I regularly spend time working onmy collection. I guess I spendabout two hours every week on my hobby. This is mainly over weekends,as I donot have time during the week.

69a. Why have you chosen this hobby?

Thats an interesting question. Allow me to explain myself/my personal views byshortly mentioning thefollowing points: First of all, its a very interesting hobby.For example, the stamps from other countriesoften say something about thatcountry and its people.

69b. Why have you chosen this hobby?

First of all, when you collect stamps, you are able to learn more about the world,and you will not bebored easily. What I mean to say is that you can get stampsfrom every country in the world, and thestamps often say something about thatcountry and its people. Secondly, you are able to meet newfriends through your hobby. For instance, you have a common interest with someone else, and youcandiscuss your collections together for many hours. Lastly, the hobby will teachyou some self-disciplineand how to be very systematic. That is to say, you haveto tend to your collection regularly, and you haveto sort the stamps according tointernationally recognized systems.


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70. What are good hobbies? And what are bad hobbies?

In my opinion, good hobbies are those ones that give you the opportunity todevelop a new skill. Forexample, collecting stamps teaches you to besystematic. Bad hobbies on the other hand may result inyou acquiring badhabits. For example, TV and computer games will result in you neglecting your studies.

Preferences (colors)

71a. What color do you like? Why?

I like red. Please allow me to explain. In my country, red is associated with lifeand good luck. Forexample, a bride will wear something red on her wedding day,in the hope that it will bring her and herbridegroom some luck in future.

71b. What color do you like? Why?

If I had to describe my favorite color, I would choose yellow. Many artists areknown to use yellow intheir paintings. For example, Vincent van Gogh is famousfor the yellow sunflowers in some of hispaintings. Many countries have yellow intheir national flags. For example, South Africa has a broadyellow band in their newly designed flag. This symbolizes the energy and warmth to be found inthenation.

71c. What color do you like most? Why?

Yellow is my favorite color. First of all, to me, yellow symbolizes the sun. What Imean to say is that itreminds me of energy and warmth. Secondly, yellow is abright color as apposed to dull colors like brown

and gray. For instance, brownand gray usually make me feel depressed. Lastly, I would like to mentionthatyellow is a practical color. That is to say, you can wear yellow with almost anycolor, and it does notget dirty too easily.

72. Do colors have some symbolic meaning in your country?

Yes, colors certainly have a lot of meaning in my country. Please allow me toexplain. Firstly, it issignificant that the national flag of my country has a redbackground. Red is symbolic, for example, of avibrant life, which we believe areone of the dominant characteristics of the country and its people. Italso signifiesgood luck, so a bride would wear some red on her wedding day. In addition, Ithink thatyellow has a specific meaning to our people. For example, we believethat it symbolizes the energyradiated by the sun, which in turn is the primarysource of life. In addition, however, it also signifies theobscene, as apposed toblue in the most of the western cultures. For example, here a blue moviewouldbe called a yellow movie. Lastly, I think that white has a special meaning to us.To be more specific,in times of sadness and mourning, we use white to expressour feelings, as apposed to black in most of the western cultures.


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Preferences (shopping and movies)

73a. Do you like / enjoy shopping?

Yes, I love shopping. Please allow me to explain. Firstly, I usually buy clothes for myself. I like to go to theshops and see what they have to offer. I browse aroundand compare the prices before a buy something.Secondly, I do the shopping of all our household needs. I love to find out about any new products on themarketand how they can possibly make my life easier.

73b. Do you like / enjoy shopping?

No, I hate shopping. Please allow me to explain. Firstly, shopping is the mostbasic activity in a capitalisticsociety. What I mean to say is that somebody has aproduct which they would like you to buy from them

whether you really need it or not. They lure you into their shops and malls by advertising their goods onTVand in the newspapers. They only tell you about the positive aspects of their product, but wouldnever mention the disadvantages. This you have to find outfor yourself, usually after you have boughtthe product.

74a. Do you often go to the cinema?

Yes, I go to the cinema as often as possible. I usually go with some friends towatch the latest actionmovies or comedies. We have a great time, like for example when our favorite star is playing a lead rolein the movie.

74b. Do you often go to the cinema?

Yes, I go to the cinema as often as possible. I believe that films are a wonderfulform of art. Please allowme to explain. Firstly, in films there are a wide range of genres ranging from comedy and drama, tohorror and science fiction. For example, recently I have seen the drama Titanic, which has beendescribed asthe most expensive film ever made. The extent to which the producers attendedto thedetails of the original ship was astounding. Another example would be thethriller with my favorite actorAnthony Hopkins in the lead role called Silence of the lambs. It had me on the edge of my seat for mostof the time.

75. Do you often go to the theater?No. I have never been to the theater. Firstly, it is too expensive for me. I prefer togo to the cinema.Secondly, I believe that the theater is boring. What I mean tosay is that the actors are on the same stagethe whole time. I cannot see howthat can be as exciting as a good movie.

76. What kinds of movies do you like best?


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I like comedies. First of all, comedies are great fun. What I mean to say is that Ihave a good laugh whilewatching. Secondly, comedies seldom contain violentscenes. For instance, you would not easily findmurders, shooting, fighting, andso on in a comedy. Lastly, comedies often contain excellent acting byfamousstars. For example, Robbie Williams in Mrs. Doubtfire is considered one of themost extraordinaryperformances ever by an actor.

77. Who is your favorite movie star? Describe him / her.

My favorite movie star is Jackie Cheng. He is handsome, and very funny. Healways has a smile on hisface, and never seems to be worried about thesituations that he finds himself in. The U.S. PresidentClinton went to watch oneof his movies with him.

MUSIC

78. Do you think music is important?

Yes, I like music very much. That is to say, I cannot imagine what my life wouldbe like without music.Firstly, I believe music plays an important part in peopleslives. For example, we can use it to sooth o urminds after a hard day at work, or it can provide us with the rhythm to dance to.

79. What kind of music do you enjoy most?

I like pop music very much. Allow me to explain. First of all, pop music is lively,and suits me at my age.What I mean to say is that us youngsters like to listen tomusic that fits in with the way we feel Secondly,usually has a good rhythm. For instance, it is suitable for us to dance on. Lastly, pop music is simpletounderstand. That is to say, I like it because it is not difficult to understand, and ithelps me to relaxafter I have been studying hard for some time.

80. How long do you listen to music everyday?

Oh, let me think a bit. I guess I listen to music for about half an hour every day. Iwould, for example,listen when I get home from school, or in the evenings beforeI go to bed. On weekends, however, I listento music much more. For example, Iwould invite my best friend over to my place, and we would listen toour favoriteCDs for a few hours at a time.

TRAVELING

81. Do you like traveling?


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Yes, I like traveling. Firstly, I believe that traveling is always educational. What Imean to say is that thepeople that you meet along the way are usuallyinteresting. Secondly, I wish I were able to travel more.For example, I have nottraveled to a foreign country yet.

82. How do you usually travel?

I like to travel by train. Allow me to explain. Firstly, when I travel by train I amable to see more of mycountry. In addition, the trains in my country areconvenient and comfortable. For example, I can travelto any city, and I am ableto sleep on the train. Lastly, traveling on a train is a social event as well. Forexample, one can chat to the other passengers about where they are going, andwhy they are traveling.

83. Where have you traveled lately?

I traveled to xxx last month. My parents and I traveled there by train. We went tosee my grandmotherwho has been ill lately. I enjoyed the trip as I have not beento xxx before. We did not have theopportunity to sleep on the train, as it takes

only six hours to get there.

84. What kind of places do you like to visit?

I like to visit places where there is a lot of entertainment. For example, I dont likeit when we go and visitmy grandparents in the country. They live on a farm anddont even ha ve a computer for me to play on. Ilike to visit the cities where thereare movies to watch and nightclubs to visit.

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